The Mersey Valley

Trafford has a rich heritage of parks and greenspace rooted in the local urban character.

The borough supports 30 municipal parks and a diverse range of historic open spaces and visitor attractions such as Sale Water Park, Longford Park and Dunham Massey.

The Trans Pennine Trail and Bridgewater Canal pass through the borough’s heart, linking local communities and visitors to the Mersey Valley and beyond.

More than 200 hectares of countryside around the Mersey Valley are looked after by the Trafford Countryside Management Partnership. The partnership is led by City of Trees and Trafford Council who work with range of organisations, including The Conservation Volunteers and the Environment Agency to change the way we manage the boroughs countryside.

Together we are improving access for people and taking steps to enhance biodiversity for wildlife.

Explore areas in the Mersey Valley below.

Sale Water Park

Sale Water Park is a hub for outdoor activities and offers a range of opportunities for walking, wildlife watching, sport and practical conservation. It is connected to other beautiful areas of countryside via the Trans Pennine Trail and the River Mersey, including Priory Gardens.

History
The lake was excavated during the 1970s to create a gravel embankment for the M60 motorway. Broad Ees Dole, located in the northeast of Sale Water Park is Trafford’s first Local Nature Reserve. The wetland area provides a mosaic of habitats for resident and visiting birds, including herons, kingfishers, little grebe and many other species.

Practical Conservation - The Conservation Volunteers Green Gym and Midweek Group inspire people to improve their health and wellbeing while contributing to the local natural environment. The weekly sessions are run by experienced leaders who provide training and practical skills. Each session includes a ‘brew’ break where volunteers can get to know one another. For more information email Manchester@tcv.org.uk

Urmston Meadows and Ashton

Urmston Meadows is located on the southern fringes of Urmston close to the River Mersey. The meadow pastures, woodland paths, pond and ditches provide ideal habitat for wildlife and a peaceful place for visitors to unwind. Old Ees Brook offers spectacular views of the River Mersey as it meanders through the valley and is easily reached via a footpath located between Urmston Meadows and Eesbrook.

Practical Conservation - Urmston Meadows Action Group helps local people get involved with the management of the site. Volunteers meet once a month to undertake a range of seasonal habitat improvements for the benefit of wildlife and visitors. The group is supported by friendly and experienced leaders from City of Trees and The Conservation Volunteers who provide tools, equipment and refreshments. For more information email Ste@cityoftrees.org.uk.

Central Mersey Valley

The central Mersey Valley refers to an area of greenspace occupied by Stretford Meadows, Banky Meadows and Kickety Brook. Stretford Meadows supports an interesting array of wildflowers, including orchids, and is becoming increasingly popular with dog walkers and bird enthusiasts.

Banky Meadows and Kickety Brook are located to the south of Stretford Meadows and are regularly used by horse riders. The entire area is well connected to the Trans Pennine Trail with links to Urmston and Sale Water Park.

Things to do

Walk / Run - Discover walking routes near and around the Central Mersey Valley.

Wellacre Country Park

Wellacre Country Park is made up for three distinct areas; Green Hill, De Brook Court and Jack Lane Nature Reserve. Together the site offers panoramic views of the Mersey Valley and extensive grassland and wetland habitat for local wildlife. The area is especially popular with dog walkers and anglers.

Things to do:

Walk / Run - Discover walking routes near and around Wellacre Country Park

Community Forest Trust (CFT) is the charitable organisation that supports the delivery of the City of Trees movement. CFT is a non-profit making company limited by guarantee. Registered in England no. 3598556. Charity registration 1072706.